The World Customs Organization (WCO) has designed standards to secure and to facilitate the ever-growing flow of goods in the international commerce. In 2005, the WCO developed the SAFE Framework of Standards to Secure and Facilitate Global Trade and introduced the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Programme.

The AEO Programme is designed for “trusted traders” who are able to demonstrate consistent quality, compliance and trustworthiness in their supply chain. Under this programme the “trusted traders” will be accorded benefits by the Customs administrations to assist in the movement of international cargo. Among the WCO members, over 170 countries have submitted letters of intent to implement the AEO system and the programme is currently in operation in many countries across the globe. Fiji is the 80th country in the World and first in the region to introduce AEO Programme.

Fiji Authorised Economic Operator Programme

The Fiji Authorised Economic Operator Framework was established in 2018 and is managed by the Gold Card Services. The pilot programme was launched in June 2018 with seven Gold Card companies. The programme was officially launched on 25th January 2019.

The Framework outlines the criterion for entities to be considered for the AEO programme. The entities should be able to demonstrate acceptable security controls and standards to qualify for the programme. The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service provides benefits such as an account manager, priority services, deferred payments, etc. to its certified authorised operators.

Entities that are involved in the international supply chain for at least 5 years and fulfilling their Tax & Customs obligation have an opportunity to be certified as a Fiji Authorised Economic Operator. The Fiji Authorised Economic Operator Framework and the application form is available on the FRCS website. Completed application form can be submitted to the FRCS Gold Card office or forwarded via email to aeo@frcs.org.fj.

For any further information on the Fiji Authorised Economic Operator programme you can email to aeo@frcs.org.fj

Last Updated - September 21, 2025